NSW: Measles warning as five cases reported

AAP General News (Australia)
02-11-2008
NSW: Measles warning as five cases reported

SYDNEY, Feb 11 AAP - NSW Health is warning people of the dangers of measles after five
cases of the disease have been reported in Sydney.

Two women aged in their 20s have been diagnosed with measles following the cases of
three children reported last week, NSW Health communicable diseases director Jeremy McAnulty
said today.

It was clear the measles virus was now circulating in the community, Dr McAnulty said.

He said the three sick children had all visited the Children's Hospital at Westmead
in late January, while one of the women had been travelling on public transport from Sydney's
west to the city.

"Initial investigations have not determined any link between the first cases and the
latest two cases," Dr McAnulty said.

"Close contacts of both women are now being followed up for vaccinations and advice."

Symptoms include fever, tiredness, runny nose, cough and sore red eyes, followed by a rash.

"It's important for people who haven't been immunised to be particularly vigilant as
they may have come into contact with the disease," he said.

"Symptoms usually begin between around 10 days after contact with an infected person,
so now is the time for people to be particularly aware of any signs of infection in themselves
or their children.

"Anyone who develops these symptoms should seek advice from their GP."

AAP kd/was/jm/de

KEYWORD: MEASLES

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